Information system of testing and counseling centers: difficulties, divergences and standardization

dificuldades, divergências e padronização no preenchimento

Abstract

Launched in 1996 the Testing and Counseling Centre Information System (IS-TCC) represents a key to ol to the delineation of users profile indicators and to the definition of strategies for reducing vulnerability to STD/HIV/AIDS. Failure to fill out its form properly hampers the achievement of those goals. This research aimed to analyze discrepancies and difficulties when filling out the IS-TCC 2005 Version, in view of the standardization of records. It is a descriptive and exploratory study conducted with a CTA (Portuguese acronym for Testing and Counseling Centre) multidisciplinary team in Belo Horizonte from January to December 2009. Focus group technique was used in 12 monthly sessions. Secondary data were applied for detecting errors in filling the form. The main discrepancies were detected in the fields "post-test referral", "Drug Use, "" Population Profile"and" Legend of Results". The conflicting items standardization helped the preparation ofa supplementary form forthe field"Instructions"already in use for filling out the Department of Health form and contributed in reducing data loss and evaluating the counseling practice. The persistence of certain errors on registers indicates the professionals ne ed to get used to consult the Filling Instructions Form, to receive periodic training, and to adapt themselves to continuous changes. The interaction with other CTA's and with the National STD/AIDS Program is vital to optimize the use of the SI-CTA in the planning and promotion of actions and strategies based on reliable data, as well as the customization of services.